Bowlers know the secret to longevity

BOWLING FANATIC: Jack Banks, 92, forgets the score of his game as soon as he steps off the green but never forgets the fun. Or the women.

Relevant offers

According to a group of 80-plus-year-olds the key to longevity is bowls.

And considering the fact they gather on a regular basis to play at the Howick Bowling Club, it would seem the group of 28 men are right. On Tuesday the ''bowls fanatics'' gathered for the octogenarian tournament.

Jack Banks, 92, who changed his name from John so as to not be confused with ''the other Mr Banks'', has been playing bowls for seven years.

''I started late. I always start late. Some of these boys have been playing for over 45 years.''

Banks says bowls gives him something to do and keeps him off the streets.

''I make lots of friends down here. I can't remember any of their names though.

''As soon as I walk off the ground I forget my score but I remember how much fun I had. Oh and I remember the women.''

Howick Women's Club president Paulene Murdoch says the perception that bowls is an old man's game is a myth.